Combating Invasive Species and Advancing Biosecurity

AREAS OF CONCERN

The Hawaii State Legislature has declared invasive species “the single greatest threat to Hawaii’s economy and natural environment and to the health and lifestyle of Hawaii’s people.”

Invasive alien species have the capacity to degrade and destroy remaining native habitat and eliminate native species. Continual monitoring and responsive management is needed to prevent the establishment of invasive plants, algae, marine invertebrates, predators, parasites and pathogens in priority areas and to control or remove invasive plant and animal species from areas managed for natural resources protection.

Hawai’i’s marine habitats, especially coral reefs, are particularly vulnerable to alien invasions. To date, four known species of alien algae have become invasive in Hawaii, along with at least two species of seagrass, and non-native mangrove infestations.

Historical examples

1960s
-Convene discussion on impacts of ungulates on native species and watersheds